News Release

Sunday, March 7, 2004

Gang Related Shooting Leaves Two Dead and Three Wounded

Los Angeles: On March 6, 2004 at about 5:15 p.m., Newton Patrol officers were flagged down by citizens and were notified that a shooting had occurred on the 100 block of West 70th Street. Officers arrived at 115 West 70th Street and discovered two deceased male Black victims, who had been shot, lying on the ground.

Further investigation by Newton Detectives indicated that unknown suspects drove to the location in a vehicle. Three suspects exited the vehicle and began shooting at the victims. The victims were struck by the gunfire. The three suspects entered their vehicle and left the location in an unknown direction

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics pronounced 34 year old, Eric Irby and 44 year old, Levy Rudd dead at the scene. Three additional victims were also struck by the suspects’ gunfire and were transported to local hospitals. The victims were two male Blacks and one male Hispanic who appear to be in their 20’s.

The motive is unknown and the suspect (s) and weapon remain outstanding. This shooting is being investigated as a gang related shooting by Newton Homicide Detectives.

Anyone with information regarding these murders is asked to contact Newton Homicide Detectives, at 323-846-6556. On weekends and during off-hours, please contact the 24-Hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Sandra Escalante, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.